13 Brilliant Malayalam Thrillers & Horrors That Prove Every Other Film Industry Needs To Step Up Their Game

Where to watch: JioHotstar

After its recent massive success in the theatres, this Mohanlal and Shobana starrer has proven yet again the potential of Malayalam cinema. 

The story: a taxi driver’s life takes a dramatic turn when his beloved Ambassador car is seized under mysterious circumstances, which leads to a quest for justice that will make you sit at the edge of your seat the entire time. If thrillers are your jam, don't skip this one. 

Where to watch: JioHotstar

With mighty critical acclaim for its production, Kishkindha Kaandam is a gripping story around a monkey-inhabited village, where disturbances prompt a newly-wed couple to investigate its root cause. Watch if you're into well-crafted mystery thrillers.

Where to watch: JioHotstar

Starring the effervescent Nazriya Nazim, Sookshmadarshini is the story of a curious homemaker who suspects that her new neighbour is more private than normal. Her gut feeling gets the best of her—which spirals into a suspenseful game of cat and mouse.

Where to watch: SonyLIV

After a suspension due to a gambling scandal, Inspector Vivek Gopinath returns to duty, seeking redemption by unraveling a 40-year-old murder case involving a faceless victim. His investigation leads him into the Malayalam film industry's past, uncovering secrets that intertwine cinema and crime.

Where to watch: SonyLIV

Made entirely in black-and-white, this Mammootty starrer is a nod to Kerala's folklore. The story revolves around a runaway folk singer in 17th-century Malabar, who stumbles upon a haunted mansion. From there on, a game of deception and dark magic takes place. Watch for its beautiful cinematography, production design, and, of course, one of the best stars Malayalam cinema has to offer. 

Did the poster scare you? Yeah, you should definitely watch this one.

Where to watch: JioHotstar

Set in 2007 Bengaluru, 7 carefree bachelors experiment with a Ouija board, and end up inviting a spirit into their lives—leading to a series of hilarious and spooky events that test their friendship and sanity. Watching Soubin Shahir doing what he does best has never been a bad idea.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

With power-packed performances by Revathy and Shane Nigam, Bhoothakalaam is a fantastic horror film. The story: a grieving mother and her troubled son begin to experience terrifying events in their old house—blurring the line between mental illness and something far more sinister.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

If you're interested in renditions of Shakespeare's works, Joji is the film to watch. Inspired by Macbeth, Joji reolves around a man belonging to a wealthy family who sees a shot at power, and plots a twisted plan to get there. The story unfolds into a dark, witty tale of ambition and guilt. And need I say, Fahadh Faasil? 

Where to watch: Netflix

Starring three of the finest actors in Malayalam cinema, Nayattu is a story of 3 police officers who become fugitives after an accident entangles them in a political mess, forcing them to confront the system they are part of.

Where to watch: Prime Video

A psychological thriller featuring the GOAT Fahadh Faasil, Trance revolves around a struggling motivational speaker who gets taken under the wing of corporate masterminds and turned into a flamboyant pastor. The film explores mental health, religious exploitation, and the commercialization of spirituality. Watch it specifically for the brilliance that is Fahadh Faasil's performance.

Where to watch: Zee5

This film is heartbreak in a package. 

The story: A young boy from Lakshadweep embarks on a journey to Mumbai in search of his missing elder brother, and ends up in confronting the harsh realities of the city's underworld. Starring the ever-so-flawless Nivin Pauly in arguably his best avatar, this film is beautiful, tragic, and well-made. Not to mention: it premiered at prestigious film festivals around the world, and brought back SEVERAL accolades.

Where to watch: Netflix

Malayalam cinema cannot get better than this. The story: when a buffalo escapes from a slaughterhouse in a remote Kerala village, the hunt by the townspeople spirals into chaos, revealing the primal instincts lurking beneath their otherwise civilized upbringing. 

Where to watch: JioHotstar

One of the most successful films of 2024, missing this film is not an option. The story revolves around a group of friends who embark on a vacation to Kodaikanal, where an impromptu visit to the infamous Guna Caves turns into a nightmare when one of them falls into a pit.